What does the phrasal verb “harp on” mean?

What are the definitions of “harp on”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Talk repeatedly about something.

  I was late twice last week and my boss keeps HARPING ON about it.

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “harp on”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb harp on is to talk repeatedly and persistently about something, often in an annoying or critical way. It is usually used when someone cannot stop talking about a particular topic or issue.

What are the different verb forms of “harp on”?

Root Verb	harp on
Third Person Singular Present	harps on
Present Participle	harping on
Simple Past	harped on
Past Participle	harped on

Example

My friend always harps on about her favorite TV show.

Example

He harps on about his achievements all the time.

Example

She is harping on about the same problem again.

Example

Yesterday, they harped on about the weather for hours.

Example

He has harped on about his vacation plans for weeks.

What kind of phrasal verb is “harp on”?

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Notes from a Native English Speaker

What is a transitive and intransitive verb?
- A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.)
- An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)

Intransitive verb

“harp on” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.

Example

She harped on about her new job.

Example

He harped on about the traffic all day.

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Notes from a Native English Speaker

What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb?
- A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle.
- An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.

Inseparable

“harp on” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.

Example

She harped on about her new job.

Example

He harped on about the traffic all day.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “harp on”?

Harp on about something

To talk persistently and annoyingly about a particular topic or issue.

Example

My coworker harps on about his promotion every chance he gets.

Harp on at someone

To criticize or nag someone repeatedly.

Example

My mom always harps on at me to clean my room.

Harp on the same string

To keep talking about the same subject, often in a tiresome way.

Example

He always harps on the same string, complaining about his workload.

Good things to know

Does “harp on” have an informal or formal tone?

Harp on is considered informal and is more commonly used in everyday conversations and casual contexts. It is not typically used in formal writing or professional settings.

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “harp on”?

Synonyms

• nag
• complain
• persist
• ramble
• dwell on
• keep talking
• go on

Antonyms

• ignore
• overlook
• drop
• forget
• neglect
• let go